Any funds raised go towards general funds as well as the upkeep and maintenance of St Laurence’s which, in a mediaeval building, can be considerable. Latest projects include sensored LED lighting in the Vestry and also zoning the Chancel with its own infrared heating panels so as not to use or rely on the mains gas boiler so much. We have been discussing since 1999 the need to replace the forty-year-old boiler and with the Church of England wanting to reach net zero carbon by 2030 this is a tall order and a major problem to find a suitable alternative let alone pay for it. Watch this space, we may still be talking about it at the turn of the decade!

FUNd-Raising Events

Gone are the days of the Mediaeval Fayres St Laurence’s ran from 1983-2014, though many in the community still ask after them with fond memories, gone also are many of the volunteers who braved the weather - rain, wind or shine to sell their wares. A smaller fayre now takes place at Christmas (usually on the second Saturday of November), called Santa’s Special.

We now rely more heavily on others to organise the events to which we take our two trusty gazebos, tables and boxes of preserves and other treasures. The FUN is still there, mostly, and we thank all our volunteers and punters who come with cash and credit cards, yes we have moved with the times, to raise the funds. Jamming sessions continue with the ladies of the church chopping and stirring or sewing and wrapping in our ‘Occupational Therapy’ sessions to prepare for sales.

Staying on the cooking theme, at our Church Lunches following the 11.00 Sunday service, we provide a two course hot lunch. These pre-booked Church lunches are a great way to meet our church family. Sunday teas are also very popular during the summer season when we continue with shows and talks on various local topics of interest. In 2022 we celebrated William Herschel’s bio-centenary with a yearlong programme of talks, walks and musical entertainment within the church and surrounding area. Sadly we have lost the Herschel Arms pub which commissioned a special ale ‘Stargazer Pilsner’ for the occasion, but in August 2023 we were able to aggrandise Herschel’s house in Upton Road with the presentation of two ‘Green Plaques’. The tri-centenary celebration of Benjamin Lane, an 18th century philanthropist and benefactor of the church, brought in further funds and footfall.

LONG MAY IT LAST!